Zimmerman's parents say son isn't racist

Gladys and Robert Zimmerman Sr. said they would like to tell Trayvon Martin's parents they are sorry for what happened. THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

The Associated Press
Published: July 15, 2013

ORLANDO - George Zimmerman's parents said Monday that their son isn't a racist.

Gladys and Robert Zimmerman Sr. told ABC World News that if they had the chance, they would tell Trayvon Martin's parents they are very sorry about what happened the night their son fatally shot the Miami teen during a struggle at the townhome complex where Zimmerman lived and Martin was visiting last year.

"We are deeply sorry," said Gladys Zimmerman.

Zimmerman, a former neighborhood watch volunteer, was acquitted last Saturday by an all-female jury in the fatal shooting of 17-year-old Martin last year.

The acquittal has triggered protests around the nation. The U.S. Justice Department says it will review evidence to see whether any federal criminal charges are warranted.

Martin was black, and Zimmerman has identified himself as Hispanic. Critics believe race has influenced the handling of the case, from the 44-day delay in arresting Zimmerman to his acquittal.

When asked about Zimmerman's muted reaction to the not guilty verdict Gladys Zimmerman described her son as "a composed person."

Zimmerman's parents said they don't know if their son will ever be able to return to a normal life given the attention the case has received.